Keywords: American Indians, Tribal governments, Sovereignty, Institutionalization, Federal policies, Intergovernmental collaboration, Social change, Urban populations, Reservation communities, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
Abstract: In the late 1960s, American Indians were a marginalized and powerless group, both in urban areas and on reservations. They faced high unemployment, alcoholism, and limited resources. Reservations were often under the direct control of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). However, over the next three decades, the situation for American Indians began to change. Federally recognized tribal governments made significant progress in terms of resources, regulatory authority, and governmental standing. Federal policies began to acknowledge their sovereignty, and states also started recognizing tribal sovereignty and establishing new intergovernmental procedures for cooperation. Some tribes even generated revenue through gaming, reducing their dependency on external sources. Despite these gains, challenges remained, particularly in poverty and health statistics. Nevertheless, the strengthening of tribal governments and their capacities represented a unique and positive development compared to the decline of policies aimed at other minority groups. This transformation is puzzling, given the overall conservative trends in racial equality politics. The study argues that this change can be understood as a form of institutionalization, wherein tribes were newly included in the category of sovereign governments. This institutionalization process is explored through historical analysis and an examination of the actors, policies, and contexts involved. In conclusion, the study provides a detailed analysis of the transformation of American Indian tribal governments from a position of powerlessness to one of increasing recognition and sovereignty, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of social change and institutionalization.
When you sign up for our newsletter